health
Cannabis commercialization not decriminalization drives up usage, study finds
Review reveals rise in users and rates of psychosis in countries where cannabis is sold commercially
TL;DR
- Decriminalizing cannabis possession or strictly regulating access does not appear to increase usage or mental health problems.
- Commercializing cannabis, where it is sold like alcohol and tobacco, leads to more users and increased potency.
- Countries with commercial cannabis markets saw higher rates of psychosis and other mental health issues linked to the drug.
- Decriminalization in Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Asia showed little evidence of changes in usage or psychiatric illness.
- Uruguay's state-controlled legal market also did not show increased usage or psychiatric issues.
- A for-profit industry has incentives to sell cheaper and high-potency products, potentially increasing use and harm.
- The commercialization of supply, rather than simple legalization for recreational use, is identified as the critical factor.